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Seven individuals accused of being the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network began their trial on Tuesday, facing charges for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that resulted in the moniker “the hammer group”.

International terrorist designation and legal charges

Recently, the US government designated the organization as a terrorist organization along with several other European far-left and anarchist groups.

German prosecutors state the group was responsible for targeting locations in the country and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a business proprietor in central Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a meeting point for rightwing activists.

Some suspects are allegedly accused of using hammers against suspected far-right members, leaving some severely injured.

Trial details and cross-border allegations

The trial involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until July 2026 in the city of Dresden, Germany. A pair of suspects, named as Johann G. and Paul M., also face charges for attacks in the Hungarian capital during early 2023, around an annual event known as the “day of honour” that attracts rightwing extremists from throughout the continent.

In a related case, another German activist, Maja T, is currently on trial in the Hungarian judicial system for multiple charges of attempted assault against far-right activists prior to the identical event in that year.

Historical background and organizational structure

Eastern Germany has historically served as a hotbed for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigration youth groups, as well as the often militant anti-fascist networks that counter them.

Prosecutors describe Johann G as a senior figure within Antifa Ost, tasked with planning attacks and bringing in new members.

Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where radical left activists practised combat techniques and rehearsed attacks. At depots managed by Paul M, the network reportedly stockpiled tools, pepper spray, concealment items and communication devices.

Previous convictions and global responses

A different activist formerly involved with the organization, Lina E., emerged as a cause celebre within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for targeting suspected right-wing individuals.

America's terrorist listing renders organization affiliates barred from entering the United States, freezes any assets they may have within the world’s largest economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.

The German right-wing AfD party applauded the American move and called on the German administration to follow suit. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “taken note” of the US designation.

“The threat posed by the [Antifa Ost] group has recently decreased significantly. Key leaders and particularly violent members have either received convictions or remain detained.”

Interior ministry representative